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Honorary degrees, President’s medals recognize five outstanding individuals for excellence

Five individuals will be honored during this year's Commencement ceremonies for their contributions to the campus, the community, the region, and the world. (Sacramento State graphic/Sam Macapagal)

Sacramento State annually recognizes individuals for their contributions to the campus community, the CSU system, the region and beyond.

Since 1963, CSU has awarded honorary degrees to individuals who have demonstrated excellence in areas that benefit humanity, CSU campuses, the state, the nation and/or the world.

The President’s Medal for Distinguished Service is awarded to community members who provide outstanding service to Sacramento State, higher education, the public and/or the common good. This year marks President Luke Wood’s first time bestowing the medals.

A full biography of each of this year’s five recipients is available online.

Honorary Degrees:  

  • Russ Buettner, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Letters.
  • Roger G.F. Fong, a retired Sacramento County assessor and the founding chair of the board for Five Star Bank, is the recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Laws.

President’s Medal for Distinguished Service:

  • Rhonda Ríos Kravitz, Sacramento State alumna and dean emerita of Sacramento City College.
  • Vivian “Vicki” Pleau, Sacramento State alumna, philanthropist, and advocate.
  • Otis L. Scott, Sacramento State dean emeritus.

Receptions on April 3 and 12 at the historic Julia Morgan House will honor the recipients, who will also be recognized May 17-19 during Commencement ceremonies.

Visit the Honorary Degrees web page to learn more about the this year’s recipients and to see a list of past honorees.

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About Daniel Wilson

Daniel Wilson joined the Sac State communications team in 2022 as a writer and editor. He previously worked at the Sacramento Bee as an audience engagement producer and reporter. He graduated from Sac State with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism in 2018. He plays video games, watches pro wrestling, and loves spending time with his wife and cat.

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